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More than 4 million people are expected to attend the maritime festival.
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I’m in North Carolina (visiting family in Charlotte), so I’m writing this newsletter early and dedicating it to Sail Boston 2026. Sailboats haven’t visited Boston since 2017, and we’re one of only five stops on the Sail250 tour, so I think this event is worth diving into!
The ships will dock in Boston Harbor on Saturday, and more than 4 million people are expected to attend the maritime celebration. Ahead, find out everything you need to know.
Your comprehensive guide to Sail Boston 2026
Long ships are approaching! The highly anticipated Parade of Sails will take place on July 11, when more than 60 majestic ships from around the world will sail into Boston Harbor. Find out everything you need to know, including which ships are arriving, what (free!) events are happening, what safety measures are in place, and more.
Find out what makes a ship a “tall ship”
For those looking to brush up on their knowledge of tall ships before the ships arrive here, an expert explains what makes a ship a “tall ship.” It turns out that height is not the main reason.
Find out where the sailboats will be moored
Planning a sailboat adventure? Here’s a complete list of historic ship moorings in Boston. Many offer free tours on a first-come, first-served basis. Did you know that more than two dozen ships are from New England? Here is a list of participating ships.
Travel tips
- You can eat and drink all over the world with many hotels accepting international ships during the event. For example, visitors can drink clerico (a South American version of white wine sangria) at the Omni Boston Hotel in the Seaport in honor of Captain Miranda of Uruguay; try Polish pierogi at Hyatt Place Boston/Seaport District in homage to Dar Młodzieży from Poland; and enjoy Swedish sweets at The Newbury Boston in celebration of HMS Gladan from Sweden.
Deals and thefts
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- From July 10-16, Kings Dining & Entertainment in Seaport will offer $8 signature cocktails including Dark ‘N’ Stormys, Navy Grogs, Cabin Coolers and a limited edition Sam Adams Tall Ships Ale on tap.
- Sailors in uniform can get 20% off food at the Capiz Lounge in Boston’s Renaissance Seaport area during Sail Boston 2026, July 11-16.
- Book Liberty’s Sail Away Stay package, available for stays in July. The package includes an overnight stay for two, a champagne toast, kayaking on the Charles River and a voucher ($156.21 value) redeemable at CLINK or Liberty Bar for a dozen Wellfleet oysters paired with a bottle of Decoy Brut.
Spending time in Boston? Check out 10 free things to do in Boston in July.
I’ll leave you with this photo of the drone show during the Boston Pops fireworks display.
Where have you traveled recently? Please share your photos by sending them to (email protected) and they may be included in an upcoming Scenic Six newsletter.
Whether you’re traveling this week or planning your next escape, enjoy the journey.
— Christy
Christy Palma
Christy Palma is a travel writer for Boston.com, focusing on the six New England states. She covers airlines, hotels and entertainment in Boston and New England. She is the author of the award-winning weekly travel newsletter Scenic Six.
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